Canton, town in St. Lawrence County, New York, United States
Canton is a small town in St. Lawrence County in northeastern New York, spanning a large area with the Grasse River running through its center and the Oswegatchie River at its edge. The town features tree-lined streets, historic buildings with simple design, open fields, and several neighborhoods connected by main roads.
The town was established in the early 1800s and named after Canton, China, reflecting contemporary trade interests. The Iroquoian peoples, including the Mohawk and Oneida, had inhabited the land for thousands of years before European settlers arrived around 1800.
The name comes from Canton, China, reflecting early settlers' interest in trade with the region. The presence of two colleges shapes daily life and community events throughout the year.
The town is small and walkable with shops, cafes, and lodging options clustered near the center, making it easy to explore on foot. Buses and trains connect to nearby towns, and main roads provide straightforward access to different neighborhoods and natural areas.
The town is home to two colleges in close proximity, which is unusual for its small size and brings student life to the entire community. This creates frequent cultural events, sports competitions, and year-round activity that shapes the character of the place.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
